UNDER THE BAKULA TREE: A Sisterhood Finds Roots Against the Patriarchy

by Prasannakumary Raghavan

Sorrowful, traumatic, and intensely romantic, Under the Bakula Tree, set in Kerala, is the story of a widow tormented by patriarchal traditions. A mother of two, she finds love again, but as a widow, it is forbidden.

Then something happens; a sisterhood turns a corner, ready to take up her challenge. They meet under an old Bakula tree, where Sara finds the secrets to find love again.

55 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 18, 2021

Reviews

[Nadira Cotticollan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had become friends with the author on Facebook before she had published this book. So of course, I quickly ordered a copy as soon as it came out. Finished it in the course of 2-3 days. It was an easy and engaging read . The sad reality of young women being compelled to enter into marriages which turn out to be disasters only because the parents are bound by societal norms that lay down that their duty is first and foremost handing over their daughters to men , who are deemed suitable in their eyes. What the girl may desire for herself is given the least consideration. What should make them happy is also decided on their behalf by others. Getting out of a marriage, in the Indian context, however suffocating or even violent that it may become, is equally fraught with difficulty because of lack of support from the family. In many such cases, it is as if the parents wash their hands off completely after they have got their daughters married off to the satisfaction of the society.

It was a relief to see how the story unfolded, the bond between the three young women providing the succour and strength for one of them to eventually take a route to happiness.

Easy style . Smooth read.

[Priyanka M · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Under The Bakula Tree” is more than simply a book; it’s a weird gathering that embraces women’s untamed strength in the face of difficulties, determination, and sisterhood. This is a must-scroll story if you enjoy stories that twitch at the limits of social norms.

[Drgeetha S Nair · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book that kept me in thrall from page one to the end of it. The author has beautifully narrated the uncertainty and sorrow in the minds of the three women, Sara, Viji, and Alina who bond together against the injustice and inhuman treatment meted out to them in the conservative patriachal society, they had the misfortune to be born into and married to against their will!Expecting to read yet other books by this author in the near future too!

[Khushbu Mathur · Rating 3 out of 5]

The 3 women, Sara, Alina & Viji come from different past and they bond through sisterhood and help Sara come out of a difficult situation in her life and inspire her to dream and be happy again. Such is the power of female strength that it can claw one out of the deep ends of years of sorrow.

Author chose to empower women through her story and gave the message that no matter at what age and stage you are in your life, it is never too late to chase your happiness and follow your heart

[Khushbu Patel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good short story ebook for people who love reading stories that revolve around the life of women in India.
This book celebrates sisterhood and wonderfully describes the beauty of the Bakula tree in connection with the story.

[kanchan bisht · Rating 4 out of 5]

We lived in the hilly terrains where everyone intruded on everyone else’s life as a communal right. They call it social responsibility.

I experienced a roller coaster of emotions after reading "Under the Bakula Tree," which resonated with pain, and sadness. The story, set in Kerala, follows widow Sara as she fights against patriarchal customs. As a mother of two, Sara dares to find love again, an act deemed forbidden by societal norms. The story takes a dramatic turn when an old Bakula tree provides shade for a gathering of strong women who are prepared to face these difficulties.
The book's honest depiction of the difficult circumstances experienced by women really got to me. The author creates three unique stories—Viji, Sara, and Alina—that act as moving mirrors reflecting the glaring gender disparities and cultural norms. The topics discussed are more serious than the superficial conversations that take place on social media; they highlight just how far we still have to go in achieving the goals of female equality and empowerment.
The three main characters' friendship is what makes the story so strong. Their constant support for one another offers a ray of light and inspiration in the middle of the darkness that consumes their lives. It's an inspiring illustration of the positive impact that women supporting women can have, serving as a lighthouse in the otherwise difficult landscape of their lives. The author isn't afraid to challenge the stereotypes of males as protectors. The people who are supposed to be the source of stability and support end up causing chaos.
The book may, however, be better in a few places. Even if the language is genuine, it may use some polish to improve the reading experience as a whole. Focusing solely on one character and leaving the conclusion open-ended felt like a narrative choice that left some threads untied.
To sum up, "Under the Bakula Tree" offers an insightful exploration of the lives of its protagonists, revealing the complexities of cultural expectations and the tenacious nature of women.

[Swati · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book beautifully portrays the strength and determination of women in the face of societal hardships, caste divisions, and family rivalries. The close relationship between the female characters is nuancedly portrayed, highlighting the significance of encouraging and helping one another through difficult times.

Under The Bakula Tree is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged book to read. It clarifies social inequities, women's empowerment, and the transforming potential of female friendship. This novel is a powerful reminder of women's tenacity and the value of solidarity in the face of hardship, even in spite of its flaws.
Readers will find themselves relating to Under The Bakula Tree on a personal level as it illuminates the struggles and obstacles experienced by women. It serves as a reminder that women still deal with comparable problems and crises in some regions of the world today. The book acts as a catalyst for the development of these empowering relationships amongst women and represents hope.

There were, nevertheless, a few points that might not have satisfied readers. The story concludes with one of the female protagonists embarking on a new beginning, but the reader is left wondering what ultimately happens to her. The book's short tale style may have contributed to the sense of hurried storytelling among some readers, given the lack of resolution.

[Tanvi Agarwal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating:3.5/5
Under The Bakula Tree by Prasanna Raghavan is a literary and contemporary fiction short story book. It is about female friendship and supporting each other.

Review

This book carves a touching portrayal of female strength in the face of societal crisis and restraints of caste and family rivalry. The plot revolves around three women and their struggles that lead to finding peace in their unwavering friendship. The stories they never dared to share with anyone unfold before each other under the old Bakula tree.


Despite facing terrible circumstances, from getting poisoned to a death threat, they survived and looked forward to a better life starting again. The character development was sketchy, but the author detailed the personality appearance of protagonists and minor ones. The story highlights a woman's struggles after falling in love with a man from a different caste. It may lead to the forced marriage of women and the killing of the male character.

The overall experience of reading this book is bitter, sweet, and saddening. It is about women's empowerment, social injustice, and the power of female friendship pulling each other out of the disaster.

[Swarnali Nath · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved reading the book and how it chronicles the lives of three women intertwined with the bonding of friendship, affection, and strength. The most interesting thing that caught my attention while reading the book was the sisterhood that blossomed between these three women, which became a forever sign of the foundation of faith. It’s heart-warming to read about their individual stories, how they met, and how they found their lifelong cheerleaders and confidante in each other. This book could be a nice light read for a lazy weekend.

[Samata · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Under the Bakula Tree,” I can best describe as a story of tragedy, trauma, and friendship with a slice of romance. Sara is a victim of patriarchal traditions. Besides being a mother of two lovely girls, she is a window. Being in a bad marriage, forgets what love means. She is not allowed to fall in love again even when she realizes love is waving hands towards her for the second innings.

For full Review visit: https://www.indiacafe24.com/book-revi...

[Manali · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story of sisterhood and #womensupportingwomen that’s at once eye-opening as well as inspiring

My rating: 3.2/5

Viji, Sara and Alina are neighbors at Skyward Residential Complex in semiurban Kochi. The three women though polar opposites in personalities and lifestyles, share a friendship that helps them get through the turbulent times in their individual lives. Will their friendship help Sara get over her abusive husband's death? If yes, how?


Full review: https://wp.me/p6XQyB-5oO

[Sabita Pillay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book. The relationship between the three girls in the story was so special. It was lovely to read how they supported each other and helped to make life a little better for each other. The story was very well written. It was easy to read and the flow of words was really good. Really enjoyed the book. A goodread indeed.

[Jayakumar Eravi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent style of writing and worth reading.Expecting more from the author